Setting up shop in a coastal setting so profoundly Pacific Northwestern as Tofino, BC, led Tofino Brewing Co. to an inevitable fate: first and foremost, the beer lineup will honor its undeniably wild hometown roots. The notion remains true and strong six years into operation.
Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, the brewery offers locals and visitors sustainable and inspired creations – including standout nods to its surfing town status (Kelp stout) and the forests that line the rugged shore (Spruce Tree ale). We spoke with Neil Campbell, sales and distribution manager, to find out more about Tofino Brewing’s unique space in a burgeoning coastal culinary scene.
1) Which of your own current offerings are you digging the most?
We brew our Spruce Tree ale every spring and it’s an excellent beer for sunny days in our taproom. We use locally foraged Sitka spruce tips to add a subtle sweetness that rounds out the already great flavors in this golden ale. It’s my favorite for the patio this time of year, or even the office.
2) Any brewing pipe dreams you’re dying to make a reality?
I would love to put out a great tasting non-alcoholic beer with awesome branding that could give the designated drivers something to enjoy, almost as much as their friends when they take their turn being the responsible person for an evening. Probably not the answer you expected, but something that I think could go a long way for this generation of drinkers.
3) What non-beer beverage is in your glass most these days? What is your favorite way to enjoy it and where?
The whole crew has been drinking tons of kombucha these days. We’ve put it on tap here at the brewery recently and we use local Vancouver Island companies, so it keeps in line with the craft industry and provides a great alternative to beer when I’m not feeling a stout with breakfast. I like enjoying it at work in the morning, straight out of the tap.
4) Favorite song, album or artist to jam out to while throwing a few down the hatch?
I’ve gotta say, the “Lost In The Dream” album by The War On Drugs is one that just seems to never get old these days. Sometimes I catch myself having listened to the album three times before I realize — or get told — that I haven’t switched it in hours. Their sound is so fluid and their style is like something out of the ’60s. Whenever I listen to “Under The Pressure,” it takes me back to some sort of outdoor concert with the wind blowing across the stage, the sun setting in the background and a festival vibe that feels surreal in any era outside of the ’60s and ’70s. It’s a great feeling for having a few on the back deck, no matter what the weather is out here on the coast.
